Gaza's 'Phase Two': A Euphemism for Perpetual Siege, Not Peace
📰 THE STORY: Al Jazeera reports on the narrative of a 'phase two' in Gaza, where Washington hails a new stage of truce, yet Gazans experience a stark disconnect between these promises and a deadly reality of continued violence and despair. 🔍 WHAT THEY'RE NOT TELLING YOU: Historical Context: The idea of 'phases' and 'peace processes' has historically been used to manage, rather than resolve, the
occupation. The 1993 Oslo Accords, touted as a step towards peace, instead solidified the occupation framework, creating bantustans and giving the illusion of Palestinian self-governance while Israeli settlement expansion continued unabated. This 'phase two' follows over 75 years since the Nakba in 1948, which saw the expulsion of 750,000 Palestinians and the establishment of the state of Israel
on their land, and 17 years since the illegal blockade of Gaza began in 2007. Double Standard: Western media and governments consistently frame Israeli military actions as 'security operations' or 'phases of disengagement,' while resistance is labeled 'terrorism.' When the US-led coalition bombed Iraq for regime change in 2003, it was 'Operation Iraqi Freedom.' When Israel has killed over 40,000
Palestinians and displaced 1.9 million since October 7, 2023, it's a 'response' or 'phase.' Yet, when Russia engages in similar tactics, it's an 'unprovoked invasion' and 'war crimes.' The language whitewashes the brutality based on who is perpetrating it. Follow the Money: The continued supply of US arms and diplomatic cover for Israel underpins this 'phase two' charade. The US provides Israel